Welcome to Tech News of the Month for September 2024, where we bring you the biggest stories and developments from the tech world. This month has been filled with exciting advancements, from cutting-edge product launches to significant innovations in AI and social media. We’ve gathered all the key highlights in one place, covering the latest leaks, rumors, and breakthroughs that shaped the tech landscape. Whether it’s new device reveals or transformative updates, we’ve got everything you need to stay informed about the most important happenings of the past month.
This month, Apple officially launched the highly anticipated iPhone 16 series, along with new Apple Watch and AirPods at its ‘Glowtime’ event. Huawei made waves by unveiling the Mate XT Ultimate Design, the world’s first tri-fold smartphone, with a global release set for Q1 2025. In South Korea, Samsung introduced the Galaxy Quantum5, which leverages quantum physics technology. Meanwhile, Bluetooth 6.0 was released, marking the first major update to wireless connectivity in eight years. Meta took the stage at Meta Connect 2024 to reveal the Quest 3S, Orion AR Glasses, and new Ray-Ban Glasses. However, Samsung faced controversy as an explosion of its Galaxy Buds FE in Turkey caused permanent hearing loss.
Table of Contents
Apple Officially Launches iPhone 16 Series, Alongside New Apple Watch and AirPods at Its ‘Glowtime’ Event
At its highly anticipated “It’s Glowtime” event, Apple unveiled the iPhone 16 series along with the new Apple Watch and AirPods. The iPhone 16 lineup includes the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max, all featuring significant upgrades over their predecessors.
iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus:
Both the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus are powered by the new A18 chip, built on second-generation 3nm technology. The chip features a 16-core neural engine optimized for AI tasks, offering a 30% performance boost over the A16 Bionic. The iPhone 16 retains its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display, while the iPhone 16 Plus maintains its 6.7-inch display. However, both models are still limited to a 60Hz refresh rate, with no ProMotion display included.
These models introduce the Action Button, previously exclusive to the Pro models, which allows users to quickly access functions such as muting, activating the flashlight, recording voice memos, triggering Shortcuts, or adjusting Control Center settings with iOS 18.
Additionally, a Camera Control Button has been added, dedicated to capturing photos and videos. This button allows users to launch the camera app quickly, record videos with a press, and use touch gestures for functions like zoom and exposure. The touch-sensitive button works similarly to a DSLR camera’s capture button—lightly pressing focuses on a subject, while fully pressing takes a photo.
The Camera Control Button will also support a new Google Lens-style visual intelligence feature, launching later this year. For instance, users can point their phone at a restaurant, press the button, and instantly receive details such as the menu and opening hours.
The 48MP camera system features a larger f/1.6 aperture, sensor-shift optical image stabilization, and a 2x telephoto option for full-resolution photos and 4K videos. Users can also capture Spatial Video and Photos for the Vision Pro headset.
The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus come in black, white, pink, teal, and ultramarine colors. Pricing is as follows:
- iPhone 16 (128GB) – Rs. 79,900
- iPhone 16 (256GB) – Rs. 89,900
- iPhone 16 (512GB) – Rs. 1,09,900
- iPhone 16 Plus (128GB) – Rs. 89,900
- iPhone 16 Plus (256GB) – Rs. 99,900
- iPhone 16 Plus (512GB) – Rs. 1,19,900
iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max:
The iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max are powered by the A18 Pro chip, which delivers 20% faster GPU performance compared to the A17 Pro. Both models feature larger displays—6.3 inches for the iPhone 16 Pro and 6.9 inches for the iPhone 16 Pro Max, the largest display ever on an iPhone. Both displays support ProMotion technology with adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz.
The A18 Pro chip, built on the second-generation 3nm process, includes two performance cores and four efficiency cores, offering up to 15% faster performance than the A17 Pro. With a 16-core neural engine optimized for machine learning and generative models, the chip promises double the speed for machine learning tasks. Apple also claims that Apple Intelligence features run 15% faster on the A18 Pro compared to the A17 Pro.
The 6-core GPU is 20% faster than its predecessor, enabling enhanced gaming and media experiences, including ProRes video recording. The key difference between the A18 and A18 Pro is that the A18 Pro includes an additional GPU core, totaling six compared to the five-core GPU in the standard A18.
The Pro models also feature an upgraded 48MP Fusion Camera with 5x optical zoom and support for 4K 120 fps video recording, providing high-quality slow-motion videos. Audio capture during video recording has been improved with Spatial Audio and AI-powered background noise reduction. The Pro Max model includes a 5x telephoto lens with a 120mm focal length, previously exclusive to the Pro Max models.
Battery optimizations ensure the best battery life ever in an iPhone, with the Pro Max lasting up to 29 hours of video playback.
The iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max are available in Black Titanium, White Titanium, Natural Titanium, and Desert Titanium. Pricing starts at Rs. 1,19,900 for the iPhone 16 Pro (128GB) and Rs. 1,44,900 for the iPhone 16 Pro Max (256GB).
AirPods 4 and Watch Series 10
At its “It’s Glowtime” event, Apple introduced the AirPods 4 and Apple Watch Series 10 alongside the iPhone 16 lineup, featuring significant upgrades. The AirPods 4 now include active noise cancellation (ANC), previously exclusive to the AirPods Pro and Max. Powered by the H2 chip, they offer enhanced sound quality, gesture control, and features like personalized spatial audio. Additionally, Apple switched the AirPods Max to USB Type-C and introduced new colors: Blue, Midnight, and Starlight.
The AirPods Pro (2nd generation) now support health-centric features like an in-built hearing test and hearing aid functionality via a personalized Noise app.
Apple Watch Series 10 was also unveiled with 42mm and 46mm options. It features a sleeker design, powered by the S10 SiP with a 4-core Neural Engine for on-device Siri. New health features include sleep apnea detection, with a 2,000-nit LTPO3 AMOLED display and fast charging.
The AirPods 4 start at Rs. 12,900 (non-ANC) and Rs. 17,900 (ANC), while the Apple Watch Series 10 starts at Rs. 46,900 (GPS) and Rs. 56,900 (GPS + Cellular).
Huawei Mate XT Ultimate Design: World’s First Tri-Fold Smartphone Launched, Global Release Set for Q1 2025
Huawei unveiled the Mate XT Ultimate Design on Tuesday, hours after Apple introduced its iPhone 16 series. This new tri-fold smartphone is the world’s first of its kind, featuring a massive 10.2-inch flexible OLED display that can fold into two smaller sizes: a 7.9-inch tablet and a 6.4-inch smartphone screen. The display is made from flexible materials, allowing it to bend in multiple directions.
The device is equipped with a triple-camera setup, consisting of a 50MP primary sensor, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and a 12MP periscope telephoto camera with 5.5x optical zoom. It also packs a 5,600mAh battery, with support for 66W wired charging and 50W wireless charging, ensuring fast recharges.
The Mate XT runs on Huawei’s HarmonyOS 4.2 in China, but its global variant is expected to switch to EMUI based on Android, due to ongoing US sanctions limiting access to Google services. Connectivity options include 5G, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.2, among others. The handset also features a side-mounted fingerprint scanner for biometric security.
Pricing for the Mate XT Ultimate Design starts at CNY 19,999 (roughly $2,835 or ₹2,35,900) for the 16GB RAM + 256GB storage model. It also comes in 512GB and 1TB storage options, priced at CNY 21,999 and CNY 23,999, respectively. Available in Dark Black and Rui Red color variants, the phone is set to go on sale in China starting September 20.
After its successful launch in China, Huawei has confirmed that the Mate XT will be available globally in Q1 2025, with prices expected to exceed $3,000 in international markets. This innovative tri-fold smartphone marks a new milestone in mobile technology, offering users unparalleled flexibility and powerful performance.
Samsung Galaxy Quantum5 Launched in South Korea uses Quantum Physics Technology
This month, Samsung unveiled the Galaxy Quantum5, a new smartphone equipped with quantum technology to bolster security. Developed in collaboration with SK Telecom, the device is currently exclusive to the South Korean market. The highlight of the Galaxy Quantum5 is its integrated Quantum Random Number Generator (QRNG) chip, supplied by ID Quantique (IDQ). This chip enhances encryption by generating truly random numbers based on quantum physics principles, providing an extra layer of security for sensitive data such as biometrics and passwords.
The QRNG chip in the Galaxy Quantum5 offers unprecedented protection against data breaches and tampering by eliminating vulnerabilities associated with traditional random number generation techniques. With this technology, Samsung aims to reduce the risk of external interference in encryption processes, making the device a top choice for users who prioritize security.
Beyond its quantum security features, the Galaxy Quantum5 closely mirrors the Galaxy A55 in terms of design and specs. It features a 6.6-inch Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, an aluminum frame with glass front and back, and IP67 water and dust resistance. The smartphone is powered by an Exynos 1480 chipset, paired with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, expandable via microSD.
The triple rear camera setup includes a 50MP main sensor, while a 5,000mAh battery supports 25W fast charging. The device comes in three color options: Awesome Ice Blue, Awesome Lilac, and Awesome Navy.
Priced at KRW 618,200 (approximately ₹38,500), the Galaxy Quantum5 is available in South Korea, though there are no announcements yet about its global availability.
Bluetooth 6.0 Released: Major Update to Wireless Connectivity in Eight Years
This month, the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) unveiled Bluetooth 6.0, marking the first significant upgrade to the wireless connectivity standard in eight years. With Bluetooth 6.0, upcoming devices will benefit from more precise distance measurement between two Bluetooth-enabled gadgets, enhanced security for digital keys, improved power efficiency, and reduced latency.
New Features and Enhancements
One of the most notable features of Bluetooth 6.0 is Bluetooth Channel Sounding, which allows for highly accurate location measurements between compatible devices. This upgrade is expected to enhance location-tracking services like Apple’s Find My and Google’s Find My Device networks, which rely on Bluetooth and ultra-wideband (UWB) technology to help users find misplaced items.
Additionally, Bluetooth 6.0 improves the security of digital keys, such as those used for vehicles, by ensuring they only work within a specific range. The update also enables new distance awareness features that third-party developers can incorporate into their apps.
Energy Efficiency and Power Savings
Bluetooth 6.0 introduces features aimed at conserving battery life. The Monitoring Advertisers feature allows devices to detect when another device enters or exits Bluetooth range, reducing the need for continuous scanning. Furthermore, the new Decision-based Advertising Filtering functionality ensures devices only scan for secondary channels when necessary, leading to even more power savings.
Improved Latency for Wireless Accessories
Gamers and users of wireless audio devices will benefit from lower latency, thanks to the new Isochronous Adaptation Layer (ISOAL) Enhancement. This feature transmits data in smaller packets, improving the performance of wireless accessories during gaming sessions, video calls, and other activities that require real-time communication.
Rollout and Availability
While Bluetooth 6.0 brings exciting advancements, it may take several months before devices supporting the new standard hit the market. Both your smartphone and accessory must support Bluetooth 6.0 to fully take advantage of these features, so expect a gradual rollout of compatible devices in the coming months.
Meta Unveils: Quest 3S, Orion AR Glasses, and Ray-Ban Glasses At Meta Connect 2024
This month, Meta showcased its long-awaited innovations, beginning with the Meta Quest 3S, a more affordable version of the Quest 3 at its Meta Connect 2024 , priced at $300. This headset combines elements from both the Quest 2 and 3, featuring the same Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chipset and 8GB of RAM as the regular Quest 3. While it maintains the 4MP camera for color passthrough, allowing for augmented reality experiences, it sacrifices some specs to keep costs down. The Quest 3S utilizes a single LCD display with a resolution of 1,832 x 1,920 pixels and replaces the advanced pancake lens with the older Fresnel lens, which reduces the field of view. Battery life is slightly improved at 2 hours and 30 minutes despite a smaller battery.
Meta also introduced its first-ever AR glasses, dubbed the Orion, which are still in the prototype stage and won’t be available to consumers just yet. These glasses feature holographic displays capable of overlaying virtual objects in real-world environments, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. The Orion is designed to be compact and stylish, with Meta focusing on internal development to refine the technology before launching a consumer-ready product.
Additionally, Meta unveiled a new version of Ray-Ban Meta glasses, which function as a head-mounted camera and AI assistant. These glasses feature a smarter Meta AI, allowing users to interact with it more efficiently using voice prompts. They also incorporate partnerships with apps like Be My Eyes to assist visually impaired users and enhance audio experiences through collaborations with Audible, iHeart, Spotify, and Amazon Music. The new Ray-Ban Meta glasses are priced between $300 and $430, depending on the frame and lens options.
Samsung Galaxy Buds FE Explosion Causes Permanent Hearing Loss in Turkey
In a disturbing incident last week, a user in Turkey reported that a Samsung Galaxy Buds FE exploded inside their girlfriend’s ear, causing permanent hearing loss. The incident was shared on Samsung’s Turkish community forum, where the user revealed that the earbuds were fresh out of the box, with 36% battery, and had never been charged.
According to the user, his girlfriend was trying the earbuds for the first time when one suddenly exploded in her ear, leading to irreversible hearing damage. The user sought assistance from a Samsung service center in Cemalpasa, Adana, where staff initially appeared sympathetic. However, after a two-day investigation, Samsung’s service team concluded that the buds had “deformed” rather than exploded, offering only a replacement with little explanation.
The user, dissatisfied with the service, expressed frustration, stating that he had documentation, including medical reports and photos, connecting the explosion to the hearing loss. He has been dealing with the issue for months and was advised to pursue legal action if unsatisfied.
This incident has reignited concerns over the safety of Bluetooth devices, particularly given Samsung’s history with product safety issues, including the infamous Galaxy Note 7 battery explosions and the recall of millions of Samsung washing machines due to explosion risks in the mid-2010s.
Though the claims have not been independently verified, the situation raises fresh questions about consumer safety and product reliability.
Tech Launches Of The Month (September 2024)
These are just the headlines of this month’s tech launches. You can click on them to be directed to the page of the week when they were launched, where you can read the specs and details in that page’s particular section.
Samsung Galaxy A06 Launched in India: Key Features and Pricing Revealed
HONOR Announces New AI-Powered Products at IFA 2024, Including HONOR Magic V3, MagicBook Art 14, and MagicPad 2
Redmi Buds 6 Lite Launched in Global Markets with 40dB ANC and Up to 38 Hours Battery Life
boAt Expands TWS Lineup with Nirvana Ivy Earbuds Featuring 360° Spatial Audio and 50dB ANC
Infinix Hot 50 5G Launched in India with Dimensity 6300 SoC, 48MP Dual Camera, and IP54 Rating
Amazfit GTR 4 New Launched with 1.45″ AMOLED Display and 150+ Sports Modes
ASUS Launches Vivobook S 15 and ProArt PZ13 Copilot+ PCs with Snapdragon X Plus Platform
Samsung Introduces Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 with Copilot+ PC Technology
ASUS Unveils NUC 14 Pro AI Mini PC with Intel Core Ultra 9 Processor at IFA 2024
HMD Fusion Unveiled at IFA 2024 With Modular Design and Interchangeable Smart Covers
Motorola Moto S50 Launched in China With Dimensity 7300 SoC and 50MP Camera
Lenovo Unveils Refreshed Laptops Ahead of IFA 2024 with Intel Core Ultra, AMD Ryzen AI Processors
Apple Unveils iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus with New A18 Chip, Camera Control, and Enhanced Features
Apple Unveils iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max with Larger Displays, A18 Pro Chip, and Advanced Camera Features
Apple Unveils AirPods 4 and Watch Series 10 at ‘Its Glowtime’ Event
Huawei Unveils Mate XT Ultimate Design: World’s First Tri-Fold Smartphone with 10.2-Inch Display and Advanced Camera Setup
Samsung Galaxy M05 Launched in India with 50MP Camera, 5000mAh Battery, and Android 14
Vivo T3 Ultra Launched in India with Curved AMOLED Display, Dimensity 9200+ Chipset
boAt Storm Call 3 Plus Launched with 1.96-Inch Display, Bluetooth Calling, and 700+ Activity Tracking Modes
Reliance Jio Launches JioPhone Prima 2 with Curved Design, 4G Support, and UPI Payments
Tecno Pova 6 Neo 5G Launched in India with 108MP Camera, MediaTek Dimensity 6300 SoC
Sony Announces PlayStation 5 Pro with Upgraded GPU, AI Image Upscaling, and 2TB Storage
HMD 105 4G and HMD 110 4G Launched in India With YouTube Support and UPI Integration
Sonos Enters Headphone Market with Sonos Ace: Premium Over-Ear Headphones Launched in India
realme Launches P2 Pro 5G in India with 120Hz Curved AMOLED Display and Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 SoC
HMD Skyline Launched with Gen2 Repairability and High-End Features, Priced at Rs 35,999
Realme Pad 2 Lite Launched in India with Helio G99 Chipset and 8300mAh Battery, Starting at Rs 14,999
Realme Narzo 70 Turbo 5G Launched in India with MediaTek Dimensity 7300 and 50MP Camera
boAt Launches Rockerz 210 ANC Bluetooth Neckband Earphones with 40-Hour Playback and Active Noise Cancellation
Motorola Launches Edge 50 Neo in India with MediaTek Dimensity 7300 SoC and 50MP Camera
Amazfit T-Rex 3 Launched in India with 1.5-inch Display and 27 Days Battery Life
Samsung Galaxy F05 Launched in India with 6.7-inch Display and 50MP Camera
Infinix ZERO 40 5G Launched in India with Curved AMOLED Display and 108MP Camera
OnePlus Launches Nord Buds 3 in India with 32dB ANC and 43-Hour Playback
Snapchat Unveils 5th Generation Spectacles with See-Through AR Glasses and Snap OS
HONOR 200 Lite Launched in India with 108MP Camera, AMOLED Display, and Dimensity 6080 SoC
HUAWEI Launches MatePad Pro 12.2″ and MatePad 12 X for Global Markets
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE Launched in India with Exynos 2400e Chipset, 50MP Camera, and Galaxy AI Features
Samsung Introduces AI-Powered Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra and Galaxy Tab S10+, Launches in India
TECNO Launches POP 9 5G with 120Hz Display and 48MP Camera in India
Samsung Galaxy M55s 5G Launched in India: Price, Features, and Specifications
Dyson OnTrac Headphones Launched in India
Nothing Ear (open) Launched Globally
Vivo V40e Launched in India with MediaTek Dimensity 7300 SoC, 50MP Cameras, and 80W Fast Charging
Redmi Watch 5 Lite Launched in India with AMOLED Display, 18-Day Battery Life, and Amazon Alexa Support
Xiaomi 14T and 14T Pro Launched with Leica Cameras, 144Hz AMOLED Display, and HyperCharge Technology
Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 Pro and Note 14 Pro+ Launched curved with 120Hz OLED Display and Powerful Battery
